LUIS Villegas made his first appearance in 14 months on Saturday in Rain or Shine’s game against Meralco in the PBA 50th Season Philippine Cup quarterfinals.
Villegas saw action for 16 minutes and 59 seconds in the Elasto Painters’ 96-79 loss to the Bolts. And even though he missed both his shots and committed two turnovers, Guiao said he was satisfied with how he played especially on the defensive end.
Guiao said Villegas held his own when Meralco was trying to force the No. 3 pick in the Season 49 draft into mismatches.
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“Great effort by Luis. It’s his first game,” said Guiao.
“They were trying to attack him on the mismatches. The situations where he got scored on were tough situations. He stayed in front of the ball, which was what I was asking him. Just stay in front of the ball," he continued.
“I don't mind you getting scored just as long as you’re in front of the ball. And exactly what he did."
It was Villegas’ first game since October 18, 2024 in Game 5 of the Governors’ Cup semifinals against TNT.
Considering that it was his first appearance in a long while, Guiao said Villegas still needs to adjust.
“Of course, meron pang paninibago. First game na ito after a long time. He's still trying to get used to switching on defense. Still trying to get used to that. But he did a good job."
Guiao also expects Villegas to play better in the knockout game against Meralco for a place in the semifinals.
“I'm not worried about him. Ang tingin ko, he'll play a better game on Monday."
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